What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
guile
Example
The politician used guile to win the election. [guile: noun]
Example
She employed guile to get what she wanted. [guile: noun]
cunning
Example
The fox was known for its cunning ways. [cunning: noun]
Example
He used his cunning to get ahead in business. [cunning: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cunning is more commonly used than guile in everyday language. Cunning is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while guile is less common and refers to a more specific type of deception.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between guile and cunning?
Both guile and cunning are associated with a formal tone and are often used in written or spoken communication that requires a higher level of vocabulary and sophistication.
